Magnetic items comprising multiple strands of universally connected components

ABSTRACT

A magnetic structure comprises a plurality of magnetic components, or a plurality of magnetic and ferromagnetic components, wherein the magnetic components, or the magnetic and ferromagnetic components, can be disposed within multiple strands or layers magnetically connected together. The magnetic structures can be utilized within any one of various different jewelry items, toys, amusement devices, educational implements, instructional aids, or the like.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to magnetic structures, and more particularly to new and improved structural forms and arrays of a plurality of magnetic components, or a plurality of magnetic and ferromagnetic components, that facilitates the relative disposition of such magnetic components, or such magnetic and ferromagnetic components, within multiple layers or strands, whereby such multiple layers or strands of the plurality of magnetic components, or the plurality of magnetic and ferromagnetic components, can be utilized to form any one of various different jewelry items, toys, amusement devices, educational implements, instructional aids, or the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Magnetic components have of course been used for a considerably long period of time in conjunction with the fabrication, manufacture, or implementation of various different toys, games, amusement devices, and the like, and accordingly, the incorporation of such magnetic components into such toys, games, amusement devices, and the like, has resulted in the inherent demonstration or exhibition of well-known magnetic principles and properties which people invariably or alternatively find fascinating, amusing, entertaining, instructional, and educational. Recently, magnetic components have been utilized in conjunction with the fabrication and marketing of therapeutic devices, and still further, magnetic components have also been utilized in connection with the fabrication of various different jewelry devices. Examples of such jewelry devices are disclosed, for example, within U.S. Pat. No. 6,427,486 which issued to Yellen on Aug. 6, 2002, United States Patent Publication 2005/0210917 which was published in the name of Wiseman on Sep. 29, 2005, United States Patent Publication 2004/0126621 which was published in the name of Fukuda on Jul. 1, 2004, and Japanese Patent Publication 11-103915 which was published in the name of Sakurai on Apr. 20, 1999.

In connection with the jewelry item disclosed within Yellen, the bracelet comprises a plurality of cylinders magnetized in radial directions oriented at right angles or 90° with respect to the longitudinal axes of the cylinders, and a plurality of discs, magnetized in the radial directions thereof, disposed within layers atop and beneath the cylinders, however, it is noted that the overall structure is relatively complex. In addition, the cylinder and disc components are only capable of being rotatably moved with respect to each other around their respectively longitudinal axes and are not capable of universal movement with respect to each other, thereby rendering the jewelry item relatively stiff and sometimes uncomfortable to wear. Continuing further, in connection with specific types of jewelry items, such as, for example, necklaces or bracelets, it is often desired to have the various components thereof arranged in different strands, layers, or arrays, as is often the case, for example, in connection with pearl necklaces or bracelets. Wiseman and Fukuda both disclose necklace or bracelet type jewelry wherein the magnetic components are capable of undergoing universal movement with respect to each other, however, these patents do not disclose operatively connecting such magnetic components together in multiple layers, strands, or arrays so as to permit the fabrication of multi-strand, multi-layer, or multi-array jewelry items, similar to, for example, the strands or arrays characteristic of pearl necklaces or bracelets, while nevertheless preserving the desired universal movements between the magnetic, or magnetic and ferromagnetic components in order to achieve the desirable flexibility and comfort.

The disposition of magnetic, or magnetic and ferromagnetic components, within multiple strands, layers, or arrays is quite different from the disposition of such magnetic, or magnetic and ferromagnetic, components within a single layer, strand, or array because such multi-strand, multi-layer, or multi-array of the magnetic, or magnetic and ferromagnetic, components comprise unique physical or structural interactive attributes due to the various ways that the magnetic, or magnetic and ferromagnetic, components can be oriented and aligned with respect to each other whereby the interactive magnetic fields will dictate the overall structural arrangement of the resulting jewelry item. For example, in connection with the construction or fabrication of an article or item comprising such a multi-strand, multi-layer, or multi-array of magnetic, or magnetic and ferromagnetic, components not only is one concerned with the magnetic interaction developed or generated between adjacent ones of the magnetic, or magnetic and ferromagnetic, components disposed within any one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays of the magnetic, or magnetic and ferromagnetic, components, but in addition, one must take into consideration the magnetic interaction developed or generated between adjacent ones of the magnetic, or magnetic and ferromagnetic, components disposed within adjacent strands, layers, or arrays of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays of the magnetic, or magnetic and ferromagnetic, components.

A need therefore exists in the art for a new and improved magnetic structure wherein the structure will be relatively simple to assemble and disassemble, and wherein further, the structure will comprise a plurality of magnetic components, or a plurality of magnetic and ferromagnetic components, which will be arranged within multiple layers, arrays, or strands, and which will be magnetically connected with respect to each other through means of universal joints or connections, not only defined between successive ones of the plurality of magnetic components, or the plurality of magnetic and ferromagnetic components, disposed within each one of the multiple layers, strands, or arrays, but in addition, between the plurality of magnetic components, or the plurality of magnetic and ferromagnetic components, disposed within adjacent ones of the multiple layers, strands, or arrays, so as to facilitate the relative disposition of such magnetic components, or magnetic and ferromagnetic components, with respect to each other whereby the plurality of magnetic components, or the plurality of magnetic and ferromagnetic components, can be utilized to form any one of various different jewelry items, toys, amusement devices, educational implements, and instructional aids.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The foregoing and other objectives are achieved in accordance with the teachings and principles of the present invention through the provision of a new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, which comprises multiple strands, layers, or arrays of magnetic components, or multiple strands, layers, or arrays of magnetic and ferromagnetic components, which are magnetically connected together. In accordance with a first embodiment of a multi-strand structure, article, item, or the like, formed by means of a plurality of magnetic components, the magnetic components have spherical configurations, and therefore, all of the magnetic components disposed within a particular one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, are magnetically connected together in a point-to-point contact mode. In addition, as a result of the magnetic poles of all of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within a particular or first one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, being disposed in a directional orientation which is opposite the directional orientation of the magnetic poles of all of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within an adjacent second one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, then each one of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within the particular or first one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, in addition to being magnetically connected, in a point-to-point contact mode, to adjacent ones of the magnetic components disposed within its own strand, layer, or array, will also be magnetically connected to an adjacent one of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within an adjacent second one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, in a point-to-point contact mode.

To the contrary, in accordance with a second embodiment of a multi-strand, multi-layer, multi-array structure, article, item, or the like, which is also constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention and which comprises a plurality of spherically configured magnetic components, when the magnetic poles of all of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within a particular first one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, are disposed in a directional orientation which is the same as the directional orientation of the magnetic poles of all of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within an adjacent second one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, then each one of the magnetic components, disposed within the particular first one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, in addition to being magnetically connected, in a point-to-point contact mode, to adjacent ones of the magnetic components disposed within its own strand, layer, or array, will also be magnetically connected to adjacent ones of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within the adjacent second one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, in point-to-point contact modes as a result of effectively being disposed at the intersections of, or within the interstices defined between, adjacent ones of the spherically configured magnetic components disposed within the adjacent second one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays.

Still yet further, in accordance with third and fourth embodiments of a multi-strand, multi-layer, multi-array structure, article, item, or the like, which is also constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, each strand, layer, or array of the structural components can comprise alternating magnetic and ferromagnetic spherically configured components. Accordingly, when multiple strands, layers, or arrays are magnetically connected together, depending upon the particular directional orientation of the magnetic poles of the magnetic components disposed within each one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, the magnetic and ferromagnetic components, disposed within a particular first one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays, will be respectively offset with respect to, or aligned with, the magnetic and ferromagnetic components disposed within a second one of the multiple strands, layers, or arrays of the magnetic and ferromagnetic components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various other objects, features, and attendant advantages of the present invention will be more fully appreciated from the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of a multi-strand or multi-layer jewelry necklace or bracelet, constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, wherein the jewelry item is fabricated from a plurality of spherically configured magnetic components wherein the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components, disposed within a particular or first one of the multiple strands or layers, are oriented in a direction which is opposite the directional orientation of the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components disposed within an adjacent or second one of the multiple strands or layers, whereby each one of the magnetic components, disposed within the particular or first one of the multiple strands or layers, is not only magnetically connected, in a point-to-point contact mode, to adjacent ones of the magnetic components disposed within its own strand or layer, but, in addition, is also magnetically connected, in a point-to-point contact mode, to an adjacent one of the magnetic components disposed within the adjacent or second one of the multiple strands or layers;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view, similar to that of FIG. 1, showing, however, a second embodiment of a multi-strand or multi-layer jewelry necklace or bracelet, which is also constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, wherein the jewelry item is fabricated from a plurality of spherically configured magnetic components wherein the magnetic poles of all of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within a particular or first one of the multiple strands or layers, are disposed in a directional orientation which is the same as the directional orientation of the magnetic poles of all of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within an adjacent or second one of the multiple strands or layers, such that each one of the magnetic components, disposed within the particular or first one of the multiple strands or layers, in addition to being magnetically connected, in a point-to-point contact mode, to adjacent ones of the magnetic components disposed within its own strand or layer, is also magnetically connected to adjacent ones of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within the adjacent or second one of the multiple strands or layers, in point-to-point contact modes as a result of effectively being disposed at the intersections of, or within the interstices defined between, adjacent ones of the spherically configured magnetic components disposed within the adjacent or second one of the multiple strands or layers;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view, similar to that of FIG. 1, showing, however, a third embodiment of a multi-strand or multi-layer jewelry necklace or bracelet, which is also constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, wherein the jewelry item is fabricated from a plurality of spherically configured magnetic and ferromagnetic components which are disposed in an alternating mode such that when the magnetic poles of all of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within a particular or first one of the multiple strands or layers, are disposed in a directional orientation which is the same as the directional orientation of the magnetic poles of all of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within an adjacent or second one of the multiple strands or layers, the strands or layers of the multi-strand or multi-layer article or item will be offset with respect to each other such that not only will each one of the magnetic components, disposed within the particular or first one of the multiple strands or layers, be magnetically connected, in a point-to-point contact mode, to adjacent ones of the ferromagnetic components disposed within its own strand or layer, but in addition, each one of the magnetic components will also be magnetically connected, in a point-to-point contact mode, to an adjacent one of the spherically configured ferromagnetic components disposed within the adjacent or second one of the multiple strands or layers;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view, similar to that of FIG. 3, showing, however, a fourth embodiment of a multi-strand or multi-layer jewelry necklace or bracelet, which is also constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, wherein the jewelry item is also fabricated from a plurality of spherically configured magnetic and ferromagnetic components which are disposed in an alternating mode, however, when the magnetic poles of all of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within a particular or first one of the multiple strands or layers, are disposed in a directional orientation which is opposite to the directional orientation of the magnetic poles of all of the spherically configured magnetic components, disposed within an adjacent or second one of the multiple strands or layers, the strands or layers of the multi-strand or multi-layer article or item will, in effect, be aligned with respect to each other such that not only will each one of the magnetic components, disposed within the particular or first one of the multiple strands or layers, be magnetically connected, in a point-to-point contact mode, to adjacent ones of the ferromagnetic components disposed within its own layer or strand, but in addition, each one of the magnetic components will also be magnetically connected, in a point-to-point contact mode, to an adjacent one of the spherically configured magnetic components disposed within the adjacent or second one of the multiple strands or layers; and

FIG. 5 is a perspective view, similar to that of FIG. 2, showing, however, a fifth embodiment of a multi-strand or multi-layer jewelry item, such as, for example, a jewelry necklace or bracelet, which is also constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, wherein the jewelry item is fabricated from a plurality of spherically configured magnetic components, and wherein further, in lieu of the jewelry item comprising, in effect, multiple separate strands, layers, or arrays of the plurality of spherically configured magnetic components disposed atop or adjacent to one another, the jewelry item is effectively fabricated from a single linear arrangement of the plurality of spherically configured magnetic components wherein the single linear arrangement of the plurality of spherically configured magnetic components is coiled upon itself so as to form the multiple strands, layers, or arrays of the spherically configured magnetic components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIG. 1 thereof, a first embodiment of a new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, is disclosed and is generally indicated by the reference character 10. While the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, may comprise any one of various different jewelry items, toys, amusement devices, educational implements, instructional aids, or the like, for the purposes of the present description, the new and improved magnetic structure 10 will be described, in effect, as a jewelry item, such as, for example, a necklace, bracelet, or the like. More particularly, the necklace or bracelet 10 is seen to comprise a plurality of magnetic components 12, all of which have a substantially spherical configuration and all of which may be fabricated from a suitable magnetic material, such as, for example, a neodymium-iron-boron composition. In addition, it is also seen that the plurality of magnetic components 12 are disposed within a first upper strand, layer, array, or the like, 14, and within a second lower strand, layer, array, or the like, 16, although, of course, more than two strands, layers, or arrays of the magnetic components are of course possible. In this manner, the necklace or bracelet 10 is structurally similar in broad appearance to, for example, a pearl necklace or pearl bracelet, although, of course, since the magnetic components do not comprise pearls, they may readily be coated or plated with a suitable precious metal or other decorative coating conventionally utilized in connection with the fabrication of jewelry articles or items, such as, for example, gold, silver, platinum, copper, chromium, rhodium, nickel, plastics, enamels, and the like.

Continuing further, it is seen that, in accordance with additional principles and teachings of the present invention as incorporated within or characteristic of the first embodiment magnetic structure 10, each one of the magnetic components 12 is seen to comprise a North magnetic pole N and a South magnetic pole S. In addition, it also to be appreciated that the directional orientation of all of the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components 12 disposed within the upper strand or layer 14 of the magnetic structure or article 10 is opposite to the directional orientation of all of the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components 12 disposed within the lower strand or layer 16 of the magnetic structure or article 10. More particularly, it is seen that all of the magnetic components 12 disposed within the upper strand or layer 14 of the magnetic structure or article 10 have their North magnetic poles pointing to or facing the left, as viewed in FIG. 1, whereas all of the magnetic components 12 disposed within the lower strand or layer 16 of the magnetic structure or article 10 have their North magnetic poles pointing to or facing the right, as viewed in FIG. 1. Accordingly, when the upper strand or layer 14 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 10 is disposed atop the lower strand or layer 16 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 10, the magnetic interaction defined between the aforenoted, oppositely oriented North and South poles N,S of the plurality of magnetic components 12 disposed within the upper and lower strands, layers, or arrays 14,16 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 10 will cause the individual magnetic components 12, disposed within the upper and lower layers, strands, or arrays 14,16 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 10, to be vertically aligned with respect to each other. As a result of such vertical alignment between the individual magnetic components 12 disposed within both the upper and lower layers, strands, or arrays 14,16 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 10, it can be further appreciated that each one of the individual magnetic components, such as, for example, magnetic component 12U2 is not only magnetically connected in a point-to-point contact mode with adjacent magnetic components 12U1 and 12U3 disposed within its own strand, layer, or array, that is, within the upper strand, layer, or array 14, but in addition, magnetic component 12U2 is also magnetically connected in a point-to-point contact mode with magnetic component 12L2 disposed within the lower strand, layer, or array 16. Such point-to-point contacts enable the individual magnetic components 12 to be rotatably or angularly moved with respect to their adjacent magnetic components in a universal manner with respect to three mutually orthogonal axes X,Y,Z. Similar magnetic connections are established between magnetic component 12L2 with respect to magnetic components 12L1, 12L3, and 12U2, and these magnetic connections hold true for any one of the magnetic components 12 disposed within either one of the upper or lower strands, layers, or arrays 14,16.

With reference now being made to FIG. 2, a second embodiment of a new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, is disclosed and is generally indicated by the reference character 110. It is noted that the second embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 110, as disclosed within FIG. 2 is similar to the first embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 10, as disclosed within FIG. 1, except as will be noted hereinafter, and therefore, structural parts of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 110, which correspond to the structural parts of the first embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 10, will be designated by means of corresponding reference characters except that they will be within the 100 series.

More particularly, it is seen that, as was the case with the first embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 10, each one of the magnetic components 112 is seen to comprise a North magnetic pole N and a South magnetic pole S, however, contrary to the particular orientation of the plurality of magnetic components 12 characteristic of the first embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 10 wherein the directional orientation of all of the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components 12 disposed within the upper strand or layer 14 of the magnetic structure or article 10 is opposite to the directional orientation of all of the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components 12 disposed within the lower strand or layer 16 of the magnetic structure or article 10, the orientation of the plurality of magnetic components 112 characteristic of the second embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 110 is such that the directional orientation of all of the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components 112 disposed within the upper strand or layer 114 of the magnetic structure or article 110 is the same as the directional orientation of all of the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components 112 disposed within the lower strand or layer 116 of the magnetic structure or article 110.

More particularly, it is seen that all of the magnetic components 112 disposed within the upper strand or layer 114 of the magnetic structure or article 110 have their North magnetic poles pointing to or facing the right, as viewed in FIG. 2, and in a similar manner, all of the magnetic components 112 disposed within the lower strand or layer 116 of the magnetic structure or article 110 likewise have their North magnetic poles pointing to or facing the right, as viewed in FIG. 2. Accordingly, when the upper strand or layer 114 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 110 is disposed atop the lower strand or layer 116 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 110, the magnetic interaction defined between the aforenoted, similarly oriented North and South poles N,S of the plurality of magnetic components 112 disposed within the upper and lower strands, layers, or arrays 114,116 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 110 will cause the individual magnetic components 112, disposed within the upper and lower layers, strands, or arrays 114,116 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 110, to be angularly offset or misaligned with respect to each other. As a result of such an angular misalignment between the individual magnetic components 112 disposed within both the upper and lower layers, strands, or arrays 114,116 of the magnetic article, structure, or item 110, it can be further appreciated that each one of the individual magnetic components, such as, for example, magnetic component 112U2 is not only magnetically connected in a point-to-point contact mode with adjacent magnetic components 112U1 and 112U3 disposed within its own strand, layer, or array, that is, within the upper strand, layer, or array 114, but in addition, magnetic component 112U2 is now also disposed at or within the intersection or interstice defined between magnetic components 112L2,112L3 so as to also be magnetically connected in a point-to-point contact mode with the magnetic components 112L2,112L3 disposed within the lower strand, layer, or array 116. Similar magnetic connections are established between magnetic component 112U1 and magnetic components 112L1,112L2, and between magnetic component 112U3 and magnetic components 112L3, 112L4, and again, such magnetic connections hold true for any one of the magnetic components 112 disposed within either one of the upper or lower strands, layers, or arrays 114, 116.

Turning now to FIG. 3, a third embodiment of a new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, also constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, is disclosed and is generally indicated by the reference character 210. It is noted that the third embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 210, as disclosed in FIG. 3 is somewhat similar to the first and second embodiments of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 10,110, as respectively disclosed within FIGS. 1 and 2, except as will be noted hereinafter, and therefore, structural parts of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 210, which correspond to the structural parts of the first and second embodiments of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 10,110, will be designated by means of corresponding reference characters except that they will be within the 200 series. More particularly, in accordance with the principles and teachings of this third embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 210, not all of the structural components comprise magnetic components, but to the contrary, the magnetic structure, article, item, or the like 210 comprises a plurality of spherically configured magnetic components 212 and a plurality of ferromagnetic components 213 which have effectively replaced some of the magnetic components and are interposed between the remaining magnetic components 212 in an alternating manner. As has been noted hereinbefore, each one of the magnetic components 212 can be fabricated from a suitable magnetic material, such as, for example, a neodymium-iron-boron composition, and each one of the plurality of ferromagnetic components 213 may be fabricated from any suitable ferromagnetic material, such as, for example, stainless steel 440-C.

Continuing further, it is seen that, as was the case with the first embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 10, each one of the magnetic components 212 is seen to comprise a North magnetic pole N and a South magnetic pole S, however, contrary to the particular orientation of the plurality of magnetic components 12 characteristic of the first embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 10 wherein the directional orientation of all of the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components 12 disposed within the upper strand or layer 14 of the magnetic structure or article 10 is opposite to the directional orientation of all of the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components 12 disposed within the lower strand or layer 16 of the magnetic structure or article 10, the orientation of the plurality of magnetic components 212, characteristic of the third embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 210, and disposed within the upper and lower strands or layers 214,216, is somewhat similar to the orientation of the plurality of magnetic components 112 disposed within the upper and lower strands or layers 114,116 of the second embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 110. In other words, the magnetic poles of the magnetic components 212 disposed within the upper strand or layer 214 of the magnetic structure or article 210 is the same as the directional orientation of all of the magnetic poles of all of the magnetic components 212 disposed within the lower strand or layer 216 of the magnetic structure or article 210.

More particularly, it is seen that all of the magnetic components 212 disposed within the upper strand or layer 214 of the magnetic structure or article 210 have their North magnetic poles pointing to or facing the left, as viewed in FIG. 3, and in a similar manner, all of the magnetic components 212 disposed within the lower strand or layer 216 of the magnetic structure or article 210 likewise have their North magnetic poles pointing to or facing the left, as viewed in FIG. 2. The reason for this is that when the upper strand or layer 214 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 210 is disposed atop the lower strand or layer 216 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 210, the components 212,213 disposed within the upper and lower layers or strands 214,216 will effectively be misaligned or offset with respect to each other. More particularly, in view of the fact that the plurality of magnetic components 212 are disposed in an alternating manner with respect to the ferromagnetic components 214 within both the upper and lower layers or strands 214,216 of the magnetic components 212, the magnetic interaction defined between the magnetic components 212 disposed in both of the upper and lower strands or layers 214,216 of the magnetic components 212 will cause the upper and lower layers or strands 214,216 of the magnetic components 212 to effectively form the structural array as illustrated within FIG. 3. More specifically, as can readily be appreciated from FIG. 3, both magnetic components 212U1 and 212U2, disposed within the upper layer or strand 214, will be magnetically connected to the ferromagnetic component 213U1 disposed within the upper strand or layer 214 and interposed between the magnetic components 212U1,212U2.

In addition, and in a similar manner, magnetic components 212L1 and 212L2, disposed within the lower strand or layer 216, will be magnetically connected to the ferromagnetic component 213L1 disposed within the lower strand or layer 216 and interposed between the magnetic components 212L1, 212L2, while still further, magnetic components 212L2 and 212L3, also disposed within the lower strand or layer 216, will be magnetically connected to the ferromagnetic component 213L2 disposed within the lower strand or layer 216 and interposed between the magnetic components 212L2,212L3. It is also to be appreciated, however, that, as an example, and as a result of the aforenoted array or arrangement of the various magnetic and ferromagnetic components 212,213 within the upper and lower strands or layers 214,216 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 210, the North pole N of the magnetic component 212U1 will magnetically interact with the South pole S of the magnetic component 212L1, the South pole S of the magnetic component 212U1 will magnetically interact with the North pole N of the magnetic component 212L2, the South pole S of the magnetic component 212L2 will magnetically interact with the North pole N of the magnetic component 212U2, and the South pole S of the magnetic component 212U2 will magnetically interact with the North pole N of the magnetic component 212 L3.

Similar magnetic connections will of course also be established between the other magnetic and ferromagnetic components 212,213 throughout the entire magnetic structure, item, or article 210, and the upper and lower strands or layers 214,216 thereof, it being appreciated therefore that not only are the magnetic and ferromagnetic components 212,213 disposed in an alternative manner within a particular strand, layer, or array 214,216, but in addition, the magnetic and ferromagnetic components 212,213 are disposed in an alternative manner as considered from one strand, layer, or array 214,216 to the next strand, layer, or array 214,216. As a result of all of such magnetic interconnections defined between the magnetic and ferromagnetic components 212,213 comprising the magnetic article, or item 210, the magnetic article or item 210 comprises a magnetically stable structure. Still yet further, it is noted that while the various magnetic and ferromagnetic components 212,213 have been illustrated as being of substantially the same diametrical extent, the magnetic and ferromagnetic components 212,213 may have different diametrical extents wherein, for example, the magnetic components 212 may be larger in their diametrical extents than those of the ferromagnetic components 213, or alternatively, the ferromagnetic components 213 may have larger diametrical extents than those of the magnetic components 212.

With reference now being made to FIG. 4, a fourth embodiment of a new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, also constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, is disclosed and is generally indicated by the reference character 310. It is noted that the fourth embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 310, as disclosed in FIG. 4 is similar to the third embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 210, as disclosed within FIG. 3, except as will be noted hereinafter, and therefore, structural parts of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 310, which correspond to the structural parts of the third embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like 210, will be designated by means of corresponding reference characters except that they will be within the 300 series. More particularly, in accordance with the principles and teachings of this fourth embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 310, and in a manner similar to that of the third embodiment of the magnetic structure, article, item, or the like 210, not all of the structural components of the fourth embodiment magnetic structure, article, or item 310 comprise magnetic components, but to the contrary, the magnetic structure, article, item, or the like 310 comprises a plurality of spherically configured magnetic components 312 and a plurality of ferromagnetic components 313. The difference between the third embodiment of the magnetic article, structure, item, or the like 210, and the fourth embodiment of the magnetic structure, article, item, or the like 310, resides in the particular disposition or orientation of the magnetic components 312 within the upper and lower layers, strands, or arrays of the magnetic structure, article, item, or the like 310 so as to nevertheless achieve a structural arrangement wherein the plurality of magnetic and ferromagnetic components 312,313 are vertically aligned with respect to each other, and wherein further, the overall structural arrangement is stable.

More particularly, it is seen that, as was the case with the first embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 10, the North magnetic poles N and the South magnetic poles S of all of the magnetic components 312 disposed within the upper strand, layer, or array 314 are disposed in an opposite directional orientations as the North magnetic poles and the South magnetic poles S of all of the magnetic components 312 disposed within the lower strand, layer, or array 316, that is, all of the magnetic components 312 disposed within the upper strand or layer 314 of the magnetic structure or article 310 have their North magnetic poles N pointing to or facing the left, as viewed in FIG. 4, while all of the magnetic components 312 disposed within the lower strand or layer 316 of the magnetic structure or article 310 have their North magnetic poles N pointing to or facing the right, as viewed in FIG. 4. The reason for this is that when the upper strand or layer 314 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 310 is disposed atop the lower strand or layer 316 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 310, and in view of the fact that the plurality of magnetic components 312 are disposed in an alternating manner with respect to the ferromagnetic components 314 within both the upper and lower layers or strands 314,316 of the magnetic components 312, the magnetic interaction defined between the magnetic components 312 disposed within both of the upper and lower strands or layers 314,316 of the magnetic components 312 will cause the upper and lower strands or layers 314,316 of the magnetic components 212 to effectively form the structural array as illustrated within FIG. 4.

More particularly, as can readily be appreciated from FIG. 4, both magnetic components 312U1,312U2, disposed within the upper strand or layer 314, will be magnetically connected to the ferromagnetic component 313U1 disposed within the upper strand or layer 214 and interposed between the magnetic components 312U1,312U2. In addition, and in a similar manner, magnetic components 312L1,312L2, disposed within the lower strand or layer 316, will be magnetically connected to the ferromagnetic component 313L1 disposed within the lower strand or layer 316 and interposed between the magnetic components 312L1,312L2. It is also to be appreciated however, that, as an example, and as a result of the aforenoted array or arrangement of the various magnetic and ferromagnetic components 312,313 within the upper and lower strands or layers 314,316 of the magnetic structure, article, or item 310, the North pole N of the magnetic component 312U1 will magnetically interact with the South pole S of the magnetic component 312L1, while the South pole S of the magnetic component 312U1 will similarly magnetically interact with the North pole N of the magnetic component 312L2. In addition, the North and South poles N,S of the magnetic component 312U2 will magnetically interact with the South and North poles S,N of the magnetic component 312L2, and similar magnetic connections will of course also be established between the other magnetic and ferromagnetic components 312,313 throughout the entire magnetic structure, article, or item 310, and the upper and lower strands or layers 314,316 thereof. Accordingly, while the magnetic and ferromagnetic components 312,313 are disposed in an alternative manner within a particular strand, layer, or array 314,316, the magnetic and ferromagnetic components 312,313 are disposed in a vertically aligned manner as considered from one layer, strand, or array 314,316 to the next strand, layer, or array 214,216. As a result of all of such magnetic interconnections defined between the magnetic and ferromagnetic components 312,313 comprising the magnetic article, or item 310, the magnetic article or item 310 comprises a magnetically stable structure.

With reference lastly being made to FIG. 5, a fifth embodiment of a new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, also constructed in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, is disclosed and is generally indicated by the reference character 410. It is noted that the fifth embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 410, as disclosed in FIG. 5, is similar to the second embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 110, as disclosed within FIG. 2, except as will be noted hereinafter, and therefore, structural parts of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 410, which correspond to the structural parts of the second embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like 110, will be designated by means of corresponding reference characters except that they will be within the 400 series.

More particularly, in accordance with the principles and teachings of this fifth embodiment of the new and improved magnetic structure, article, item, or the like, 410, and in a manner similar to that of the second embodiment of the magnetic structure, article, item, or the like 110 as was disclosed within FIG. 2, it is seen that the multi-strand, multi-layer, or multi-array magnetic structure, article, item or the like 410 is comprised of a plurality of magnetic components wherein all of the magnetic North poles N are disposed or facing toward the right as viewed in the drawing. However, contrary to the overall construction of the multi-layer or multi-strand jewelry item 110, such as, for example, the jewelry necklace or bracelet, as disclosed within FIG. 2, wherein the jewelry item 110 comprised a multiplicity of separate layers, strands, arrays, or the like 114,116 disposed atop or adjacent to each other, the new and improved multi-strand or multi-layer jewelry item 410 comprises a single linear arrangement 414 of the magnetic components 412 wherein the single linear arrangement 414 of the magnetic components 412 is effectively coiled upon itself so as to form the multi-strand or multi-layer jewelry item 410. It can be appreciated that by altering the size of the coiled arrangement of the magnetic components 412 comprising the jewelry item 410, the diametrical extent of the jewelry item 410 may be readily altered or changed without removing any of the magnetic components 412 from the overall arrangement of the jewelry item 410. It is also to be noted that while this fifth embodiment of the present invention has been disclosed as comprising magnetic components 412, a similar, single linear arrangement of alternating magnetic and ferromagnetic components, similar to the structure 210 disclosed within FIG. 3, is likewise able to be erected or fabricated in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention.

Thus, it may be seen that in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, there has been disclosed several different embodiments of a new and improved magnetic structure comprising a plurality of magnetic components, or a plurality of magnetic and ferromagnetic components, wherein the magnetic components, or the magnetic and ferromagnetic components can be disposed within multiple strands or layers. The magnetic structures can be utilized within any one of various different jewelry items, toys, amusement devices, educational implements, instructional aids, or the like.

Obviously, many variations and modifications of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the present invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. 

1. A multi-strand structure, comprising: a plurality of spherically configured components adapted to be magnetically connected in point-to-point contact modes so as to be universally movable with respect to each other around three mutually orthogonal axes; said plurality of spherically configured components being disposed within a plurality of strands wherein said plurality of spherically configured components disposed within a first one of said plurality of strands will not only be magnetically connected to adjacent ones of said plurality of spherically configured components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands but will also be magnetically connected to adjacent ones of said plurality of spherically configured components disposed within a second adjacent one of said plurality of strands.
 2. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 1, wherein: all of said plurality of spherically configured components comprise magnetic components.
 3. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 2, wherein: each one of said magnetic components has first and second opposite magnetic poles defined within opposite ends thereof so as to permit any one of said plurality of magnetic components to be magnetically attracted toward and operatively connected to another one of said plurality of magnetic components when a first one of said opposite magnetic poles of any one of said plurality of magnetic components is operatively engaged with a second one of said opposite magnetic poles of another one of said plurality of magnetic components.
 4. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 3, wherein: all of said first magnetic poles of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands have a first directional orientation, and all of said first magnetic poles of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said second one of said plurality of strands have a second opposite directional orientation such that when said first and second strands of said plurality of strands are connected together, said magnetic components disposed within said first and second strands of said plurality of strands will be aligned with respect to each other.
 5. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 4, wherein: any one of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands is disposed in point-to-point contact with adjacent ones of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands and is also disposed in point-to-point contact with an adjacent one of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said second one of said plurality of strands.
 6. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 3, wherein: all of said first magnetic poles of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands, and all of said first magnetic poles of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said second one of said plurality of strands, have the same directional orientation such that when said first and second strands of said plurality of strands are connected together, said magnetic components disposed within said first and second strands of said plurality of strands will be misaligned and offset with respect to each other.
 7. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 6, wherein: any one of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands is disposed in point-to-point contact with adjacent ones of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands and is also disposed within an interstice defined between adjacent ones of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said second one of said plurality of strands so as to be disposed in point-to-point contact with said adjacent ones of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said second one of said plurality of strands.
 8. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 1, wherein: said plurality of spherically configured components comprise a plurality of magnetic components and a plurality of ferromagnetic components.
 9. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 8, wherein: said plurality of magnetic components and said plurality of ferromagnetic components are disposed within an alternating array.
 10. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 9, wherein: each one of said magnetic components has first and second opposite magnetic poles defined within opposite ends thereof so as to permit any one of said plurality of magnetic components to be magnetically attracted toward and operatively connected to one of said plurality of ferromagnetic components when a first one of said opposite magnetic poles of any one of said plurality of magnetic components is operatively engaged with one of said plurality of ferromagnetic components.
 11. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 10, wherein: all of said first magnetic poles of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands, and all of said first magnetic poles of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said second one of said plurality of strands, have the same directional orientation such that when said first and second strands are magnetically connected together, said magnetic components, and said ferromagnetic components, disposed within said first and second strands of said plurality of strands will be misaligned and offset with respect to each other.
 12. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 11, wherein: any one of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands is disposed in point-to-point contact with adjacent ones of said plurality of ferromagnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands and is also disposed in point-to-point contact with an adjacent one of said plurality of ferromagnetic components disposed within said second one of said plurality of strands.
 13. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 10, wherein: all of said first magnetic poles of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands, and all of said first magnetic poles of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said second one of said plurality of strands, have an opposite directional orientation such that when said first and second strands are magnetically connected together, said magnetic components, disposed within said first and second strands of said plurality of strands, will be aligned with each other, and said ferromagnetic components, disposed within said first and second strands of said plurality of strands, will be aligned with each other.
 14. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 13, wherein: any one of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands is disposed in point-to-point contact with adjacent ones of said plurality of ferromagnetic components disposed within said first one of said plurality of strands and is also disposed in point-to-point contact with an adjacent one of said plurality of magnetic components disposed within said second one of said plurality of strands.
 15. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 1, wherein: said multi-strand structure comprises a continuous, uninterrupted, endless loop.
 16. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 15, said endless loop comprises a jewelry item selected from the group comprising a necklace and a bracelet.
 17. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 15, wherein: said endless loop is formed from a single linear arrangement of said plurality of spherically configured components coiled upon itself.
 18. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 16, wherein: each one of said spherically configured components has a coating disposed upon the respective external surface portion thereof which is selected from the group comprising protective and decorative coatings.
 19. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 18, wherein: said coating is selected from the group comprising gold, silver, platinum, copper, chromium, rhodium, plastics, nickel, and enamels.
 20. The multi-strand structure as set forth in claim 1, wherein: said multi-strand structure comprises an article selected from the group comprising a jewelry item, a toy, an amusement device, an educational implement, and an instructional aid. 